Judge Dom Rizzi did not comment on why the decision was delayed but said such delays are allowed because the judges either need the time ''to consider further, or because of a dispute among the judges.''

Members of the Chicago chapter of the Guardian Angels, meanwhile, drove to the Dixon Correctional Center where Dotson is being held to begin a hunger stike.

Curtis Sliwa, founder of the Guardian Angels, said he and five other group members will continue their around-the-clock vigil until Dotson is set free or he is granted a new hearing.